The beloved surfboard — a loyal companion on the crest of a wave, a canvas of memories from days spent at the beach. But sometimes, that vibrant sheen begins to fade, and before you know it, your trusty board sports a less-than-glamorous yellow hue. Ever wondered why your surfboard changes color over time like an old newspaper? The reasons might surprise you, and they’re not just skin-deep.
So, What Causes a Surfboard to Turn Yellow?
UV radiation from the sun is the primary cause of yellowing in surfboards. When exposed to UV rays, the resin in the board begins to break down, a process called photodegradation. This breakdown changes the resin’s molecular structure, resulting in a yellowing effect on the board’s surface.
Yellowing can occur after years of neglect or heavy use. For example, a surfboard that was blue when it floated from Hawaii to the Philippines in 2018 turned yellow after bathing in the sun and sea for a year.
Grab your board shorts and some SPF because we’re about to ride the wave of understanding when it comes to keeping your surfboard from turning into a golden oldie before its time.
Table of Contents
How Can I Prevent My Surfboard From Turning Yellow?
To keep your beloved board from turning a sickly shade of yellow, take heed of these savvy tips. Let’s dive straight into the nitty-gritty:
Maintenance and Repairs:
- Clean Regularly: Scrub off the sand and grime. It’s not just about looks; these can scratch your board and invite more UV mischief.
- Fix Dings Pronto: A scratched-up surfboard is a UV ray’s best friend. Patch up those dings to keep them from inviting yellow tones.
Sun Protection:
- Wax On: A good layer of wax isn’t just for grip; it eats up UV rays that fancy chomping on your board.
- Traction Pads: These nifty additions shield patches of your board from the sun’s harsh gaze.
- UV-Resistant Cover: Wrap your board in an insulated cover for a UV and heat-proof hug.
Smart Storage:
- Shade’s Your Mate: When not riding the waves, stash your board in a cool, shaded spot.
- Heat Is a Cheat: Keep it away from the heat, as it speeds up that yellowing you’re trying to beat.
Material Matters:
- Choose Wisely: Some boards are built with special compounds or EVA material to stand tall against UV rays.
Beach Choices:
- Sand Beats Rocks: A sandy beach won’t just cushion your falls; it’s kinder to your board’s belly than jagged rocks.
Here’s a handy table to break it down:
| Action | Benefit | How It Prevents Yellowing |
| Clean Regularly | Removes abrasive materials | Less scratching means less UV penetration |
| Fix Dings | Maintains integrity of the board | Sealed surface reduces UV exposure |
| Apply Wax/Traction Pads | Creates a protective layer | UV rays are absorbed before harming the board |
| Use UV-Resistant Cover | Insulates from heat and UV | Minimises direct UV and heat contact |
| Store in Shade | Avoids prolonged sun exposure | Keeps the board cool, reducing chemical reactions |
| Choose EVA Material | Material is less prone to UV damage | Slows down the yellowing process inherently |
| Pick Sandy Beaches | Less abrasive than rocks/pebbles | Prevents deep scratches that expose board to UV |
Remember, every surfboard will show its age with time, but with these steps, you can keep your wave-rider looking sprightly and ready to carve the surf for as long as possible.
Are There Surfboards Available That Don’t Turn Yellow?
Surfers keen on finding a surfboard that retains its aesthetic appeal without the dreaded yellowing can rest easy; there are indeed options to keep your board looking pristine.
Here’s the nitty-gritty on surfboards that resist yellowing:
Surfboard Materials
The key to a non-yellowing surfboard lies in its construction materials. The traditional foam and polyester resin surfboards are prone to yellowing due to UV exposure and oxidation.
However, advancements in surfboard materials offer alternatives that are more resistant to these effects.
Epoxy Surfboards
Epoxy resin surfboards are known for their durability and resistance to yellowing.
They’re crafted with materials that withstand UV rays better than traditional polyester.
High-Quality Foam
Opting for top-tier foam like expanded polystyrene (EPS) can also reduce yellowing, as it’s less likely to react with sunlight and oxygen.
UV-Resistant Coatings
Some surfboards are treated with UV-resistant coatings that act as a sunblock, warding off the solar rays that cause discoloration.
Surfboard Options Table
Here’s a table summarizing the choices for surfboards that stay true to their hue:
| Type | Benefits | Examples |
| Epoxy Resin | UV resistance, durability | Firewire’s Gem, Pukas Tasty Treat |
| EPS Foam | Less prone to yellowing | Lost Rocket, 3DV by DHD |
| UV Coating | Acts as a sunblock | Catch Surf’s 54 Special |
Surfboard Selection
When selecting your surfboard, consider where you’ll be surfing, your skill level, and what you’re looking to achieve with your surfing. Whether you’re after a high-performance shortboard or a fun fish surfboard, there’s a non-yellowing option out there for you.
Maintenance Tips
While the choice of surfboard is crucial, don’t forget about maintenance. Regular cleaning, repairs, and smart storage will extend the life and beauty of your board.
What’s The Best Way To Prolong The Life Of My Surfboard?
Taking care of your surfboard is akin to nurturing a treasured relationship; it demands attention, respect, and a smidge of savvy.
Here’s a bit of know-how to keep your board in tip-top shape, ward off the yellowing, and maximize its years of service.
Shield it from the Sun’s Embrace
The sun’s rays are like Icarus’ temptation—too much, and you’ll pay the price. Stash your surfboard away from sunlight when it’s not carving waves.
Wax On, Wax Off
Wax isn’t just for grip; it’s a barrier between your board and the UV rays.
Reapply it often, but don’t let it build up like old tales at a sailor’s pub.
Ding Repairs: A Surgeon’s Precision
Treat even the smallest of wounds.
A quick patch-up job can prevent water seeping into the foam, which can lead to more serious board ailments.
Surfboard Jackets
A surfboard bag is your board’s best mate, offering a buffer from knocks and the sun’s relentless gaze.
Clean as a Whistle
Regularly spruce up your board with fresh water and gentle soap. Salt and grime are foes to its longevity.
Choose Your Battles
Surf where the sea is kinder—sandy shores over a rocky rendezvous.
Your board will thank you with fewer scars.
Tech Advances
Consider boards with modern materials that scoff at the sun’s attempts to age them.
Implement these steps, and your trusty surfboard will be by your side, riding the waves for seasons to come.
| Task | Why | How Often |
| Store out of sunlight | Prevent UV damage | Always when not in use |
| Apply and remove wax | Protect from UV, maintain grip | Before every session and periodically clean off old wax |
| Repair dings | Prevent water damage | Immediately after noticing damage |
| Use surfboard cover | Extra UV and impact protection | Every time during transport/storage |
| Clean regularly | Remove salt and dirt | After every use |
| Surf sandy beaches | Minimize impact damage | Whenever possible |
| Invest in UV-resistant materials | Prolonged resistance to yellowing | When purchasing a new board |
Follow these tips, and you’ll be the chuffed owner of a surfboard that not only lasts but also retains its youthful charm.
Conclusion
In summary, fighting the yellowing of surfboards calls both perseverance and a proactive strategy.
A number of things work together to deplete the vivid color of our boards, including the weather, chemical processes in the foam, and the sun’s continuous beams. The good news is that we can considerably slow down this process if we take the correct precautions and make the right decisions.
The key to maintaining the board’s original color is routine care, which includes cleaning, dent repairs, and waxing, along with wise storage and the use of UV-resistant coverings. Additionally, a variety of surfboards constructed using contemporary materials like UV-protected coatings, premium foams, and epoxy resins may naturally resist yellowing, extending the life of your surfboard’s performance and appeal.
Surfers can keep their boards as sharp as the waves they ride by knowing the reasons and putting the suggested techniques into practice.
